SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Dozens of Springfield teenagers spent Patriots’ Day applying for a job and playing basketball.

Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni sponsored this inaugural Springfield Boys and Girls Club event. College and professional basketball star Lou Roe urged the teenagers to make the most of their lives. It was a message they took to heart.

“If you keep trying, there’s nothing you can’t overcome, don’t let anyone bring you down. This is a great example of our efforts towards prevention and education, give young people opportunities before they’re at the crossroads where they’re making bad decisions,” said Roe.

Six Flags and Big Y are among the companies that provided some of these teenagers with summer jobs.

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IT JUST TAKES ONE: It just takes One caring adult, One Boys & Girls Club, and One gift to forever impact the life of a child.